Fashion Q&A: Pleated Pants, Ribbed Tops

Yes, it's that time once again, when AskMen.com features your fashion questions. Whatever the question, we answer each one personally, and with as much detail as possible. But because of the overwhelming amount of inquiries, we're highlighting each month's most interesting; your own question may even be answered in the process.

This week, questions on the implications of a "jacket & tie" dinner, pleated pants, and ribbed tops are answered, and the verdict on wearing pants without a belt is revealed.

jacket & tie

Hi Chris,

In July of this summer, I'll be attending a formal dinner party with a bunch of colleagues. They mentioned that it's a "jacket & tie" event. What does that mean? Should I wear a suit? If so, what color and fabric should I decide on? Should I opt for a 3 or 4-button jacket? Anyways, I really want to look the part because my colleagues are snobs and I don't want to disappoint.

No Clue, Seattle

First of all, a "jacket & tie" event is not a formal event per se. Formal happenings customarily involve wearing a tuxedo. Nowadays, however, strict fashion etiquette is often forgotten, which partly explains why so many people assume a piece of clothing is "formal" just because it's made by a reputable designer.

Now let's get back to helping you impress those uptight colleagues of yours. A "jacket & tie" event requires that you wear a jacket and a tie (no kidding). I suggest you wear a complete suit just to play it safe (especially if it's an evening affair). If you're a more laid back type of guy, then you could wear a blazer with a different color pair of pants.

A navy blue blazer with gray pants would be a perfect combination, for example. As for suits, you should choose between navy and gray, that way you're guaranteed not to shock your co-workers. Just remember that khakis are a definite no-no. Finally, if you're looking for a nice light fabric because it's summertime, then linen is a sytlish option.

what's the deal with pleats?

Dear Fashion Expert,

I'm really ticked off. Last year I purchased 5 stylish tailor-made suits and all the pants have pleats. Today, everywhere I look, the trend seems to be plain-front pants. The thing is, my suits are a classic cut and the pleated pants suit me better than any plain-front ones I've tried. My tailor also said he couldn't make me new plain-front pants to match my suit jackets because the fabric wouldn't match perfectly. What should I do?

No money for a new suit, New York, NY

My dear friend, don't fret; pleats will always be in style. I personally prefer plain-front pants, but if pleated pants suit you better, then pleats it is. As long as you have fashionable shoes and a nice dressing style, you'll look fine.

My answer would have been different if you were asking about pleated khakis. Khakis with pleats should be donated to the Salvation Army and replaced by plain-front ones.